On August 23, 237 young people from Lagos State government secondary schools embarked on an unforgettable journey at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, Owode-Egba, Ogun State. Having completed their Bronze Level, they progressed on their Silver Level Award journey, which required them to undertake both practice and qualifying journeys. These journeys are a crucial requirement towards achieving the Silver Level Award, and the participants will always cherish the memories of this special time in their lives.
Participants arriving at base camp
The Award framework comprises several challenging sections, each designed to help participants develop essential life skills. While most of the sections can be completed individually or in groups, the Adventurous Journey section is a unique opportunity that combines adventure, teamwork, and exploration.
The Adventurous Journey was a five-day and four-night experience that took the participants through an unfamiliar environment, pushing them beyond their comfort zone. The first two days were designated for the practice journey, allowing participants to get acclimatized to the environment and learn the necessary survival skills. The remaining three days were for the qualifying journey, where participants put their newfound skills to the test.
Participants were divided into different groups, each with their unique set of challenges. The groups had to work together to accomplish a wide range of activities and team goals, including map reading, first aid, and environmental conservation. They also undertook an exploration which involved navigating unfamiliar terrain, adapting to changing weather conditions, building campfires, and cooking meals over an open flame. The challenges required participants to communicate effectively, build trust, and resolve conflicts, essential skills that are valuable both in personal and professional life.
Leadership training and team-building activities
THE PRACTICE ADVENTUROUS JOURNEY
As part of the Practice adventurous journey, participants are encouraged to develop their leadership, teamwork, independence, and self-reliance skills while exploring the surrounding areas.
During the practice journey, the participants had the opportunity to explore the farming activities within the community by visiting the Herimath farm located in Jagun town, they also explored various other locations such as Owode-Egba Government High School, the magistrate court, and the INEC office, which is located at Geleodun community. These journeys provided valuable learning experiences and allowed participants to discover new places.
Pictures taken during the journey
The practice journey was a unique opportunity for the participants to engage with the locals, learn about their culture, and explore their way of life. They had the chance to tour the farms, conduct interviews with the locals, and gain insights into various jobs and lifestyles beyond their usual community. The participants were excited to be a part of this journey as it provided them with an excellent opportunity to broaden their horizons. Despite the tough challenges during the journey, one participant showed great endurance and remained determined to achieve her gold Award level.
Pictures of participants when they arrived at their practice journey destination
QUALIFYING ADVENTUROUS JOURNEY
The qualifying adventurous Journey was a challenging and exciting experience for all participants. Each group took a unique route, leading to the discovery of new and unexplored territories. Despite facing obstacles like steep and rocky terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, participants persevered to reach their destination and uncovered new sights and experiences.
Participants set out for the qualifying journey
During the Qualifying Journey, various groups were tasked with exploring different communities and comparing their historical differences. The groups journeyed to a valley which dates back to the colonial era, they also explored Jaguna Community where they were warmly received at the Baale’s palace and they visited Itakuna Community where they had the opportunity to meet with the community chief.
Participants during the qualifying Adventurous Journey
Qualifying Adventurous Journey report presentations
A Bronze Award ceremony was also conducted for some participants who were yet to receive their Bronze Awards. These participants were celebrated for their dedication and commitment to achieving their goals.
Bronze Award Presentation Ceremony
As part of the camping activities, participants were given the opportunity to display their talents and how the Award helped shape their lives.
The Adventurous Journey experience has been a great learning opportunity for the participants.
Group Leader Obagwu Bernard from Ogudu Senior Grammar School shared that this experience has helped him understand people from different backgrounds and collaborate with others to achieve a common goal.
Jirbal Susan from Ajumoni Senior Grammar School had some initial excuses for not attending the camp, but her previous Bronze Award experience and her desire to achieve the Gold Award level motivated her to participate. She expressed that the journey has enabled her to overcome her obstacles and barriers.
Another participant, Deborah Joseph from Herbert Macaulay Girls Senior High School, narrated how her group lost their way during the journey but was able to reach their destination by utilizing their navigator and asking questions. She also mentioned that this experience has taught her how to survive in any situation.
Ayoma Mary from Ilupeju Senior Secondary School shared how their group struggled initially in choosing a leader due to individual differences, but eventually learned to work together and turned the differences into a strength.
In conclusion, the adventurous journey section was a fantastic opportunity for participants to develop essential life skills, push beyond their limits, and build strong bonds with their team members. The experience was both challenging and rewarding, leaving participants with a sense of accomplishment and newfound confidence.